‘Drivers are already able to make limited stops on double yellow lines and while we support a common sense approach to parking policy, businesses are as likely to be adversely affected by a parking free for all as they are by draconian restrictions,’ he commented.

‘We are not convinced this move will save the high street.’

Jenny Jones, Green Party member for the London Assembly, said the move would be a ‘crazy backwards step’.

‘It’s time we stopped peddling the notion that cars are the only way that people get to shops,’ Ms Jones said.

‘Londoners need pedestrian friendly, 20mph high streets, good public transport access and more cycle parking.’